History

Our Roots: A Region with Extraordinary Night Skies

The Western Slope of Colorado has long been home to some of the darkest, clearest night skies in the state. For generations, residents, ranchers, scientists, and stargazers have cherished the Milky Way as part of the region's natural heritage. As artificial lighting at night (ALAN) increased across the West, community members recognzied the need to protect this rare resource. 

The modern Dark Sky movement in the West End grew from the passion and dedication of three early advocates: Dr. Robert "Bob" Grossman, Deb Stueber, and Creighton Wood. 

Norwood Becomes a DarkSky Community (2014–2019)

Between 2014 and 2019, Norwood residents, local leaders, and advocates - including Bob Grossman and Creighton Wood - worked together to: strengthen lighting ordinances, conduct sky quality measurements, educate residents about responsible lighting, build broad community support

Their efforts paid off.

In February 2019, Norwood was officially designated a DarkSky Community - the first on the Western Slope and the second in Colorado.

This milestone established the region as a leader in night‑sky preservation.

Creighton’s hands‑on work with sky quality measurements, community engagement, and technical support was essential to Norwood’s success and helped set the standard for future designations in the region.

Nucla & Naturita Join the Movement (2020–2021)

In 2020, the towns of Nucla and Naturita began updating their lighting ordinances. Deb, already deeply involved in DarkSky International’s work, explored how the towns could become certified communities. During this process, she met Bob, who had recently helped guide Norwood’s designation.

With Bob’s guidance and support from Creighton Wood, Deb led the rigorous application process for both towns. They adopted Model Lighting Ordinances, completed Sky Quality Meter readings, and built strong community engagement.

In 2021, Nucla and Naturita earned Joint DarkSky Community designation - a major achievement for the West End.

Regional Leadership and Policy Advancement (2021–2025)

Between 2021 and 2025, the Coalition played a key role in regional dark‑sky efforts. Highlights include:

• Bob’s collaboration with San Miguel County and DarkSky International to strengthen lighting regulations

• the development of a precedent‑setting pathway for a county‑wide DarkSky Reserve — the first of its kind in the United States

• growing community interest across Montrose, Ouray, Dolores, and San Miguel Counties

• expanding education, outreach, and public engagement

These efforts laid the foundation for a broader regional movement.

Leadership Transition and Continued Growth (2025–Present)

In November 2025, Bob stepped down as President, marking a natural transition into the Coalition’s next chapter. Under new leadership, the organization continues to grow, strengthen partnerships, and support communities across the Western Slope.

Today, the Western Slope Dark Sky Coalition serves as:

• a regional hub for education and advocacy

• a resource for communities seeking DarkSky certification

• a partner to local governments, nonprofits, and residents

• a champion for preserving natural darkness for future generations

The Coalition remains committed to expanding dark‑sky protection, supporting community initiatives, and ensuring that the star‑filled skies of the Western Slope remain visible, vibrant, and protected.